The healthcare provider (HCP) prescribes methylergonovine for a postpartum client following the birth of her third child.
The client asks the practical nurse (PN), "Why am I getting these tablets? I did not get them with my last babies.”. Which response is best for the PN to provide?
Bleeding with the delivery of this baby is more than expected, and this medication helps contract the uterus.
The HCP routinely prescribes this medication for all women who have had three or more infants.
Methylergonovine is commonly prescribed to help contract the uterus and prevent excess bleeding.
What did the HCP say about the medications during postpartum care?
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale
Methylergonovine is an ergot alkaloid that directly stimulates sustained uterine contractions. This action is crucial in controlling postpartum hemorrhage by compressing blood vessels within the myometrium, thereby reducing blood loss. The observed excessive bleeding with this delivery necessitates intervention to prevent complications like hypovolemic shock. Its pharmacological effect targets smooth muscle receptors in the uterus.
Choice B rationale
Routine prescription based solely on parity (number of previous pregnancies) is not standard medical practice. Methylergonovine is administered based on clinical indication, primarily to prevent or manage postpartum hemorrhage, which is determined by factors like uterine atony or excessive bleeding, not simply the number of previous births. Unnecessary administration can lead to adverse effects.
Choice C rationale
While methylergonovine does contract the uterus and prevent excess bleeding, this response is a general statement. The best response directly addresses the client's current situation and her question about why *she* is receiving it *this time*. It is crucial to explain the specific clinical reason for her individual prescription, which in this context is likely due to the increased bleeding.
Choice D rationale
This response shifts the responsibility back to the client and does not provide the requested information. It fails to address the client's direct question about the medication's purpose in her specific situation. Providing clear and concise information is essential for client education and adherence to the treatment plan.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
A heart rate of 60 beats/minute for a 9-month-old infant is significantly below the normal physiological range (90-140 beats/minute). Digoxin primarily acts to slow the heart rate and increase contractility, but such a low rate indicates severe bradycardia, a potentially dangerous adverse effect of digoxin toxicity due to excessive parasympathetic stimulation and impaired atrioventricular conduction.
Choice B rationale
A heart rate of 120 beats/minute is within the normal resting range for a 9-month-old infant, which typically falls between 90-140 beats/minute. Digoxin’s therapeutic effect in infants with cardiac conditions often aims to bring the heart rate to a more efficient and less tachycardic rate, thereby improving cardiac output without causing bradycardia.
Choice C rationale
A heart rate of 80 beats/minute is below the typical normal range for a 9-month-old infant (90-140 beats/minute). While digoxin can decrease heart rate, 80 beats/minute suggests an excessive therapeutic effect, potentially indicating mild bradycardia which could compromise cardiac output and tissue perfusion.
Choice D rationale
A heart rate of 180 beats/minute is significantly above the normal physiological range for a 9-month-old infant (90-140 beats/minute). This elevated rate indicates persistent tachycardia, suggesting that the digoxin has not achieved its therapeutic effect of slowing the heart rate, or that the underlying cardiac issue is not adequately controlled.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Propping a bottle can lead to several adverse outcomes for an infant. It increases the risk of aspiration, as the infant may not be able to control the milk flow adequately. It can also contribute to otitis media due to milk pooling in the eustachian tubes and is associated with dental caries, particularly bottle mouth syndrome, and impaired bonding.
Choice B rationale
Sharing the observation with the charge nurse without first addressing the issue directly with the mother is not the most immediate or appropriate action. The PN should first attempt to educate and guide the mother, as this is within the scope of practice for direct client care and education.
Choice C rationale
Asking the mother if she is too tired is speculative and may be perceived as judgmental, potentially creating a barrier to effective communication and education. The PN's role is to provide health education and guidance regarding safe infant feeding practices, focusing on the behavior rather than the mother's perceived fatigue.
Choice D rationale
While observing the infant's behavior during feeding is important for a comprehensive assessment, the immediate and most critical action is to intervene with the unsafe practice of bottle propping. Observing further without addressing the identified risk delays necessary education and intervention to ensure infant safety.
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